If you live in Reservoir or Melbourne’s northern suburbs, chances are your home or business was built decades ago. While these properties are full of character, many still rely on old switchboards that simply weren’t designed for today’s electrical demands. Whether you’re renovating, adding new appliances, installing solar, or just wanting to improve your home’s safety, a switchboard upgrade is one of the most important electrical improvements you can invest in.
At Greenwood Electrical P/L — a family-owned business proudly serving Melbourne since 1914 — we’ve helped hundreds of clients modernise their electrical systems with safe, compliant and future-ready switchboard upgrades.
Below, we break down the top signs you may need an upgrade, the benefits you’ll enjoy, what the process involves, and why Greenwood Electrical is Reservoir’s trusted choice.
What Is a Switchboard Upgrade?
Your switchboard is the central hub of your electrical system, safely distributing power to every circuit in your home or business. An upgrade replaces outdated, overloaded or unsafe components with modern circuit protection that meets today’s safety standards.
A switchboard upgrade typically includes:
- Replacing old-style ceramic fuses or outdated circuit breakers
- Installing modern safety switches (RCDs) for shock protection
- Ensuring your setup meets AS/NZS 3000:2018 standards for electrical installations
- Preparing your home for future energy needs like EV chargers, or transitioning from gas appliances to induction cooking, hot water pumps and more
- Improving safety, efficiency and long-term reliability
🔟 Top Signs You Need a Switchboard Upgrade in Reservoir
1. Your Switchboard Still Has Ceramic Fuses
Old-style ceramic fuses are common in homes built pre-1980 and are a clear sign your system is outdated.
- They offer limited protection
- Can overheat or cause fires
- Aren’t sensitive to electrical faults
Modern RCDs (Residual Current Devices) cut power in milliseconds — saving lives.
2. Your Switchboard Has No Safety Switches
If your switchboard doesn’t have safety switches protecting every circuit, it fails to meet modern safety standards.
Safety switches protect you from electric shock due to faulty appliances, exposed wiring, or water damage.
Greenwood Electrical P/L always includes safety switches as standard in every switchboard upgrade.
3. Circuits Frequently Tripping or Flickering Lights
Frequent power loss is often a sign your board is overloaded or can’t handle today’s appliances.
- You might notice lights dimming when you use the microwave
- Or that your kettle trips the circuit regularly
This is your switchboard telling you: “I’m struggling!”
4. You’re Renovating or Adding More Appliances
New appliances = more load on your system.
If you’re:
- Installing a ducted heating system
- Switching from gas to electric (cooking, hot water, heating)
- Adding solar or an EV charger
- Or even just adding more power outlets from a renovation
…your existing switchboard won’t cut it.
Greenwood Electrical P/L offers tailored switchboard upgrades to meet the energy demands of modern, fully electric homes.
5. Burning Smell, Heat or Buzzing
If your switchboard smells like burning or makes a buzzing/humming sound — shut everything down and call an electrician immediately.
This could indicate:
- Loose wiring
- Melting insulation
- Overheating components
Contact Greenwood Electrical P/L’s 24/7 emergency electricians if you notice any burning odours.
6. Your Home Is More Than 30 Years Old
Reservoir is full of character-filled homes built in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. If your home still has the original board, it’s time for a safety check.
Modern electrical loads are 5–10 times greater than when these homes were built.
A switchboard upgrade protects both your investment and your loved ones.
7. You’re Installing Solar
A solar system often requires:
- Switchboard compatibility
- Room for additional circuit breakers
- Compliant surge protection
Solar-ready switchboards must meet AS/NZS 3000:2018 and Energy Safe Victoria guidelines.
Greenwood Electrical P/L works with local solar installers to prepare your system before panels are fitted — avoiding delays and rework.
8. You Use Extension Cords or Power Boards Everywhere
Too many power boards = not enough circuits.
If your household relies on extension cords or multi-socket boards, it’s a sign your switchboard isn’t providing enough access to safe, distributed power.
A switchboard upgrade lets you:
- Add more dedicated circuits
- Reduce fire risk from overloaded sockets
Prepare for smart home devices
9. Insurance or Safety Inspectors Have Flagged Issues
Some insurance companies are now requiring electrical systems to be RCD protected to maintain full coverage.
In addition, rental properties in Victoria must meet minimum safety standards, including safety switch protection on all power and lighting circuits.
Greenwood Electrical P/L provides upgrade solutions that meet residential tenancy compliance, so landlords can rent with confidence.
10. You’re Transitioning to All-Electric Living
As more homes in Reservoir ditch gas for environmental and efficiency reasons, the demand on electrical infrastructure increases.
Switching to electric:
- Hot water
- Induction cooktops
- Heat pumps
- Reverse cycle heating/cooling
…all increase your home’s base load requirements.
Greenwood Electrical P/L specialises in upgrades designed to future-proof fully electric homes.
Benefits of a Switchboard Upgrade
Upgrading your switchboard delivers long-lasting safety, efficiency and peace of mind. Here’s what you gain:
✔ Significantly Improved Electrical Safety
Modern RCDs trip instantly to prevent electric shock and fire hazards. Older fuses cannot detect many common wiring faults.
✔ Full Compliance With Australian Standards
Your new switchboard will meet AS/NZS 61439, ensuring it can safely manage temperature, load and fault conditions.
✔ Ready for Solar, Batteries & EV Chargers
With more homes embracing renewable energy and electric vehicles, a future-ready switchboard ensures compatibility and reliability.
✔ Reduced Risk of Overloads & Electrical Faults
A modern board prevents overheating, tripping and potential fire hazards caused by overloaded circuits.
✔ Boosts Property Value
Buyers appreciate modern electrical safety. A compliant switchboard is a strong selling point for Reservoir properties.
What Does a Switchboard Upgrade Involve?
At Greenwood Electrical P/L, we make the process seamless from start to finish.
1. Detailed Initial Inspection
Our licensed electricians assess wiring condition, load requirements and safety issues so your upgrade is accurately tailored.
2. Safe Removal of Old Components
We remove any outdated fuses, breakers or asbestos panels safely and according to regulations.
3. Installation of a Modern, Compliant Switchboard
We install a new enclosure with safety switches on every circuit, high-quality breakers and surge protection if required.
4. Circuit Labelling, Organisation & Testing
Each circuit is correctly labelled, balanced and tested to ensure maximum safety and performance.
5. Certificate of Electrical Safety
Every upgrade includes a Certificate of Electrical Safety for your assurance and compliance.
6. Cleanup, Walkthrough & Aftercare
We leave your space tidy and ensure you understand your new switchboard. Ongoing support is always available.
Why Choose Greenwood Electrical Pty Ltd for Your Switchboard Upgrade in Reservoir?
Greenwood Electrical has proudly served Melbourne’s northern suburbs for over 110 years. As a family-owned and operated business, we bring professionalism, reliability and genuine care to every project.
✔ Fully Licensed, Qualified & Experienced Electricians
Our team reflects the standards we promote in our article on why you should always hire a licensed electrician. We never compromise on safety, quality or compliance.
✔ Deep Understanding of Reservoir’s Homes & Electrical Systems
With decades of experience servicing Reservoir, we understand the common issues found in older switchboards and wiring.
✔ Honest, Upfront Pricing
We explain everything clearly and provide fixed, transparent quotes with no hidden surprises.
✔ High-Quality Workmanship Guaranteed
Our switchboard installations are neat, durable and built to last. We only use reputable, compliant components.
✔ Trusted Across Residential, Commercial & Industrial Sectors
Our experience spans all property types, making us the top choice for complex or high-demand upgrades.
✔ Over a Century of Local Service
Since 1914, Melbourne families and businesses have trusted Greenwood Electrical for dependable, high-quality electrical solutions. We treat every project with the same care and professionalism.
Ready to Upgrade Your Switchboard?
A safe, modern switchboard is one of the best ways to protect your home, family and electrical systems. Whether you’re renovating, preparing for solar or simply prioritising safety, Greenwood Electrical P/L is here to help.
Ready for peace of mind? Contact Greenwood Electrical P/L today to book your switchboard upgrade assessment.
